6 Cool Cars To Buy on a $40K Budget, According to Car Expert Doug DeMuro
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Looking for a cool car where you don’t have to spend a ton of money? With $40,000, you can grab some seriously impressive machines — from luxury sedans to performance beasts.
In a recent video on his YouTube channel, automotive expert and author Doug DeMuro shared six cool cars you can buy for around $40,000. While inflation and depreciation shift the market, these options still deliver an impressive mix of performance, luxury and fun.
Genesis G90
Starting with a surprise pick, the Genesis G90 is a full-size luxury sedan that offers a lot for the price. Competing with high-end sedans like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the G90 comes with a 5.0L V8 engine generating 420 horsepower. DeMuro shared that models just a few years old can be found under $40,000 — far less than its original $60,000 price tag. With a plush interior full of screens, leather upholstery and seat controls, this car provides serious luxury without the luxury price.
Hellcat
For muscle car enthusiasts, Hellcats, modified variants of Dodge’s most popular models, are hard to beat. Powered by supercharged 6.2L V8s producing 700 horsepower, this is raw, tire-smoking power. According to DeMuro, you can still find earlier Hellcats with potentially higher mileage for around $40,000.
Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro (Fifth Generation)
The only SUV on DeMuro’s list, the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is an off-road powerhouse. With rugged features like crawl control and multi-terrain select, it’s ready for any trail. Powered by a 4.0L V6 engine, the 4Runner offers reliability and durability, both on and off the road. It’s a great mix of utility and modern tech and you can get one these days for less than $40,000.
F80 BMW M3
The F80 BMW M3 is a performance car with practical appeal, featuring a 3.0L twin-turbocharged inline-six engine with 425 horsepower. It’s a balanced car, offering excellent handling, responsive brakes and the kind of driving dynamics that make it fun on twisty roads or the track. The four-door sedan layout means it’s practical too, with decent backseat space. While you can easily find one in the $30,000 range, DeMuro suggested a $40,000 budget lets you get even more of what you want — such as a six-speed manual.
Porsche 996 911 4S
For those seeking a more classic sports car, the Porsche 996 911 4S is a solid option. Sold from 1999 to 2005, the 996 offers an authentic Porsche experience at a great price, often available for around $30,000, with a $40,000 budget getting you the wider bodyshell of a Porsche 996 911 4S. It’s a durable, fun-to-drive car that still holds its value.
Audi RS3
DeMuro said the Audi RS3 is a compact performance sedan that packs a punch. Powered by a 2.5L five-cylinder engine with 400 horsepower, the RS3 can hit 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system offers excellent traction, making it a capable and thrilling car on all types of roads. A used RS3 with reasonable mileage can be found under $40,000, making it a top choice for performance enthusiasts.
More From GOBankingRates
